Monday, February 4, 2013

So I've been following the archaeological dig at Greyfriars in Leicester with avidity. I paid more attention to the British news articles on it than the Superbowl yesterday. I almost work myself up in the middle of the night to watch the press conference live.

But this morning, I hesitated to turn on the computer and find out. I love a good mystery. I love an underdog--and poor Richard has been vilified for centuries. I knew I would never be able to avoid knowing altogether, but I kept my eyes closed for a minute or two longer than I normally would.

And it's him. The fatal wounds found on the skeleton describe a warrior who went down fighting. The scoliosis in the spine describe a man with a physical challenge, but certainly not the twisted and withered monster Shakespeare gives us. He was not a big man--the news article I read described his build as "almost feminine". But they're sure it's him. Hastily buried in a church that Henry VIII had demolished, so the location was forgotten for centuries.

Now, I'm sure I'm not the only one who hopes that they also find a way to test the bones they have in Westminster Cathedral. The ones that are claimed to be those of the Princes in the Tower--Richard's nephews, whom he is reputed to have murdered. And perhaps another mystery can be laid to rest.

About Me

Having spent time as a freelance travel writer, travel agent, coffee shop barista, bookseller, ship's steward, construction company contracts manager and Montessori preschool teacher, I have finally found my calling. I write historical fiction for young adults. I am represented by Catherine Drayton of InkWell Management.

Find Me!

TARNISH

When poet Thomas Wyatt offers to coach Anne Boleyn on how to shine at court, she accepts. Before long, Anne's popularity has soared, but more than popularity, Anne wants a voice. What began as a game becomes high stakes as Anne finds herself forced to make an impossible choice between her heart's desire and the chance to make history.

GILT

When her best friend marries Henry VIII, Kitty Tylney must learn to walk the fine line between secrets and treason, discovering that in the Tudor court, the price of gossip could literally be her head.